“My Kids Will Figure It Out” — Why That’s Not a Plan

Even responsible adult children need more than trust—they need a plan. This post breaks down why ‘They’ll figure it out’ isn’t enough when it comes to estate planning, and how a clear, legally sound strategy can protect your family and preserve peace.

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What Tony Bennett’s Story Teaches Us About Planning for Dementia

Tony Bennett’s family showed how important it is to plan for dementia early. In this post, I explain key steps for Nebraska families: Durable Powers of Attorney, Advance Directives, Living Wills, and why planning before capacity is lost protects your loved one’s dignity and wishes.

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When Someone Tries to Honor a Deceased Person’s Wishes—But It Wasn’t in Writing, Nobody Is Happy

When a loved one’s wishes aren’t written in a valid Nebraska will or trust, it often leads to family conflict, delays, and costly mistakes in probate. In this post, I explain what happens when property isn’t clearly addressed in your Nebraska estate plan—and why written planning is the best way to protect your family.

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Why Naming Multiple Executors in Your Nebraska Will Is (Usually) a Mistake

Thinking of naming all your children as co-executors in your Nebraska will? It’s a common choice—but one that often leads to costly delays and family conflict. In this post, I explain why appointing multiple personal representatives is usually a mistake under Nebraska probate law, and how to structure your estate plan for clarity and efficiency.

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The Risks of a Poorly Planned Nebraska Power of Attorney (and How to Avoid Them)

A Nebraska Power of Attorney is one of the most important tools in your estate plan—but it must be drafted carefully. In this post, I explain the risks of a poorly planned Power of Attorney, how abuse can happen, and what steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.

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The Hidden Risks of DIY Estate Planning Templates in Nebraska

DIY estate planning templates may look convenient, but they often create serious legal risks here in Nebraska. In this post, I walk through the hidden dangers of using templates for your Nebraska estate plan—and why working with an experienced Nebraska estate lawyer is the safer choice for your family.

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Name Your Child’s Guardian—Before a Nebraska Court Does It for You

If you don’t legally name a guardian for your children, a Nebraska court will decide who raises them. In this post, I explain why naming guardians is a key part of Nebraska estate planning, how to choose the right people, and why it’s important to keep your plan current.

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Why ‘Good Enough’ Estate Planning Won’t Protect Your Nebraska Family

Too many families in Nebraska assume their old will or a basic online form is “good enough” to protect their loved ones. But when it comes to Nebraska estate planning, outdated or incomplete documents can expose your family to probate, conflict, and unintended outcomes. In this post, I explain why estate planning is a process—not just paperwork—and why “good enough” won’t cut it when your family’s future is on the line.

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Wendy Williams’ Guardianship: What It Reveals About Adult Guardianship and Why It Matters

Wendy Williams’ court-ordered guardianship has made headlines, but it also raises bigger questions about adult guardianship, personal autonomy, and how these decisions are made—especially here in Nebraska. In this post, I break down what’s happening in her case, how guardianship works under Nebraska law, and what steps you can take now to protect yourself or someone you love from unnecessary court involvement.

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When an 8-Year-Old Inherits Millions — Is He Really Protected?

What happens when a child inherits millions without a plan? Using a high-profile case as an example, this post explains why estate planning is essential — for families of all sizes — to protect minor children and manage assets responsibly.

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When a Spouse Has Dementia: Why a Nebraska Power of Attorney Is Still Essential

Many Nebraska spouses are surprised to learn that marriage alone does not give them the legal authority to manage finances or make healthcare decisions if their spouse becomes incapacitated. A Nebraska durable power of attorney is essential for protecting yourself and your spouse in the face of dementia, cognitive decline, or other medical challenges. Here’s why acting early matters — and how the right documents can help you avoid court.

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Don’t Let This Happen to You: What Went Wrong With James Brown’s Estate

When James Brown passed away, he had a will, a trust, and an estate worth $100 million. So why did it take nearly 15 years to settle his affairs? The truth is, even with documents in place, poor planning, outdated terms, and family conflicts can send any estate into chaos—especially when intellectual property is involved. Here’s what happened to James Brown’s estate, and how you can avoid the same mistakes.

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A Trust Is Only as Strong as Its Trustee: How to Choose Wisely in Nebraska

Your trust is only as strong as the person managing it. In Nebraska, a trustee’s role comes with serious legal duties—and the wrong choice can lead to conflict, poor management, or even litigation. Learn what qualities to look for, what Nebraska law requires, and why sometimes the best trustee isn’t a family member at all.

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What You Need to Know About Transfer on Death Deeds in Nebraska

A Transfer on Death (TOD) deed can seem like an easy fix to avoid probate and keep things simple after you’re gone—but without proper planning, it can leave behind more confusion than clarity. In this post, we break down how TOD deeds work in Nebraska, where they fall short, and what to consider before using one as your estate plan.

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If It’s Not in Writing, It’s Not a Plan (Especially in Nebraska)

“Everyone knew what she wanted”—until no one could agree. In Nebraska, unwritten wishes don’t mean much in probate court. This blog breaks down what happens when intentions aren’t documented, who gets what under intestacy laws, and why even the best families fall apart without a valid will or trust in place.

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“If I Already Have a Will, Why Would I Need a Trust?”

Wills and trusts both serve a purpose—but they’re not interchangeable. This post breaks down the key differences under Nebraska law and explains why trust-centered planning often provides greater flexibility, protection, and peace of mind, especially for seniors, blended families, and those concerned about incapacity.

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